REM breakdowns: Transport Minister calls CDPQ to take responsibility

The Legault government is calling on the Caisse de dépôt et placement (CDPQ) to take responsibility: it no longer wants REM breakdowns during storms.

In its second winter, the $9.4 billion light-rail train operated by CDPQ was at a complete standstill on Tuesday due to damage caused by recent snowstorms.

The service was interrupted between Brossard, in Montérégie, and Montreal Central Station.

“Each of the partners (…) must diagnose their problems and, above all, find solutions that apply to their part of the problem,” said Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault, following a virtual meeting with the various REM managers on Tuesday at noon.

They reported problems with snow removal, de-icing of switches and winter brakes, she explained. It was because of the switch problems that the trains were immobilized on Tuesday.

REM told CityNews in statement on Tuesday afternoon: “It is clear that we all understand the frustration of the users of our network, which is not functioning at the expected level of service. The switch problem experienced in recent days is well identified and the appropriate solution will be implemented. The switch systems were supposed to be operational in winter and they are not. Alstom and AtkinsRealis have therefore agreed that these switches will be modified or replaced to ensure reliable and efficient service.

“In the meantime, our operators, Alstom and AtkinsRealis, must significantly improve the performance of winter equipment and communications to users. We are working with our public transport partners to limit the impact of service interruptions. All teams are working to remedy the situation as quickly as possible.”

The minister also announced that snow removal teams have been tripled.

“The idea is that next time there will be no breakdowns at all,” she insisted, adding that the rolling stock built by Alstom in India is still in its “running-in” phase.

Guilbault now demands that users can count on a “reliable” service that will work regardless of the weather. 

“They (the users) want to know if things will improve or if the next time, the REM will break down,” she summarized. 

The minister also calls for a “recovery plan” in the event of a breakdown and improved communications with users.  

The cost of building the REM was estimated at $9.4 billion by the Auditor General in a report in 2024, or $2.4 billion more than what was planned in 2018.   

The antenna, which is to go from the Central Station to Deux-Montagnes, with another section towards the west of the island of Montreal, is to be inaugurated this fall. 

The segment that is to serve Trudeau airport is due to come into operation in 2027. 

–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews